Studio MinaLima, an experiential design agency, has created a new theatrical experience exploring classic fairytales for a popular family attraction in Scotland.
The National Centre for Children’s Literature and Storytelling, historically known as Moat Brae, has recently reopened with a brand-new exhibition of treasured classic stories, featuring critically-acclaimed artwork from the MinaLima Classics book collection.
Designed by Studio MinaLima, Enchanted Journeys: Adventures in Storytelling reinterprets best-loved family tales by bringing them to life with unique and immersive experiences for all ages.
Working with top names
Studio MinaLima is best-known for its graphic design work on the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series, with experiential designers, Robin Stapley and Eddie Newquist leading the firm’s latest project.
The duo have previously worked with top entertainment clients such as The Walt Disney Company and Universal Studios, as well as a variety of clients in the museum, cultural and retail sectors.
The Studio MinaLima creative leads say: “We are thrilled to bring these classic stories to life in a uniquely interactive way with our partners at Moat Brae. This one-of-a-kind and larger-than-life experience will enthral, entertain and educate families – children and adults alike.”
Participating in fantasy
Opening as an international attraction for the public on 1st June 2019, Moat Brae was often visited by author J.M. Barrie in his younger years. He described the Moat Brae garden as an ‘enchanted land’, giving him the inspiration to write his most famous novel, Peter Pan, which is explored in the new exhibition.
Other stories showcased in the Enchanted Journeys: Adventures in Storytelling exhibit include Lewis Carroll‘s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Hans Christian Andersen‘s The Little Mermaid, L. Frank Baum‘s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and Carlo Collodi‘s Pinocchio.
Studio MinaLima’s dynamic colours and characterisations are combined with imagery and sound to recreate these enchanted worlds in the heart of Dumfries. With various activities on offer, children are invited to pull up a chair at the Mad Hatter’s tea party, walk along the yellow brick road, and bring Pinocchio to life by pulling on his strings.
Moat Brae Trust patron Joanna Lumley says: “To have a brand-new exhibition from the inimitable Studio MinaLima come to Moat Brae this summer is an absolute dream come true.
“What it offers for book lovers, young and old, from near and far, is a chance to explore these classics of children’s literature in a completely unique and truly exhilarating way and to create precious memories to stand the test of time, just as the stories have themselves.”
Moat Brae is open during the UK summer holidays with storytelling sessions and workshops each day for guests. Visitors can also explore the Neverland Discovery Garden, café and retail store.
A range of classic fairytale stories will also soon be celebrated at Tokyo Disneysea, featuring immersive spaces including Rapunzel’s Tower, Arendelle Castle and Neverland from top-grossing Disney films.
